COVID-19 in children in the state of Pernambuco: Spatial analysis of confirmed severe cases and the Human Development Index.

INTRODUCTION: Health planning is required for the control and prevention of severe cases of COVID-19 in children. METHODS: Spatial analysis of severe COVID-19 cases in children of Pernambuco in the first six months of the pandemic and its autocorrelation with the Human Development Index was conducted. RESULTS: A total of 551 severe cases (39.4 cases/100,000 inhabitants) was initially concentrated in the metropolitan area, with later interiorization. The spatial autocorrelation of cases was identified. The bivariate analysis revealed alert regions in less developed municipalities (I=0.341; p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Considering the local particularities can assist in directing the priorities for decision making.